Kumasi: Five years after being shot while covering the 2020 general elections, journalist Pius Asiedu Kwanin continues to struggle with severe injuries, repeated surgeries, and financial hardships. Asiedu, left with an eight-centimetre bone gap in his leg, doesn't have money for treatment and the situation has made it difficult to keep working as a journalist.
According to Ghana Web, the update on his condition was shared by CDR Africa in an X post, highlighting the challenges he faces. "Left with an eight-centimetre bone gap in his leg and unable to access a critical US$35,000 surgery abroad, his career and mobility remain stalled," it stated.
Asiedu Kwanin vividly recounted the chaotic events at the EC collation centre in 2020. He described running for safety amid panic and confusion, only to be hit by a bullet as he tried to leave the area. "As I ran to seek refuge inside a church room, I heard another shot. People were panicking, shouting, and running in all directions. When I reached the metallic gate and tried to leave, a bullet hit me. I fell and was left on the floor in pain as people walked past me."
He detailed the immediate aftermath of the shooting, where he feared for his life as he lay bleeding. One soldier attempted to assist him but was unable to secure transportation. Another soldier provided some aid by tying a belt around his thigh to reduce the bleeding. Eventually, Asiedu Kwanin was transported to Cocoa Clinic for first aid before being transferred by ambulance.
Six years later, the physical and emotional scars of that night continue to affect Asiedu Kwanin. The ongoing struggle for treatment and the inability to resume his career fully highlight the long-lasting impact of the incident.